Molded Trigger Unit for Ergonomic Aerosol Discharge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerosol container discharge apparatuses are not ergonomic, leading to user discomfort and increased manufacturing and purchase costs, as they often use heavy gauge wires that irritate the trigger finger and are not designed for efficient force distribution.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, molded trigger unit with a saddle-shaped finger-engaging surface and handle-receiving grooves, combined with a tension member and actuator assembly, to ergonomically discharge aerosol container contents, reducing user fatigue and manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If heavy gauge wires are used in the trigger mechanism, then the structural strength is improved, but the user comfort deteriorates due to finger irritation and increased weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional heavy gauge wire mechanical system with a molded plastic trigger unit that integrates structural strength and ergonomic design. The molded trigger unit uses molded-in reinforcement ribs and optimized wall thicknesses to provide necessary strength while eliminating the heavy wire component that caused finger irritation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction within the molded trigger unit, combining molded plastic with molded-in metal inserts or reinforcement elements. This allows the trigger to achieve the structural strength of metal components while maintaining the ergonomic advantages and weight benefits of molded plastic construction.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional trigger mechanisms are used, then the manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the manufacturing cost increases due to multiple components and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (trigger body, reinforcement elements, finger engagement surfaces, and attachment features) into a single molded trigger unit. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate wire components and reduces assembly steps, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The molded trigger unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural strength, ergonomic finger engagement, force transmission, and attachment to the handle assembly. This multi-functionality in a single component reduces the overall part count and simplifies the manufacturing process.
3Device complexity
If non-ergonomic trigger designs are used, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the user fatigue increases due to poor force distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The molded trigger unit incorporates locally optimized features including ergonomic finger engagement surfaces with appropriate radii, strategically placed reinforcement ribs in high-stress areas, and varied wall thicknesses to distribute forces efficiently. This localized quality enhancement improves ergonomics without requiring a complete redesign of the entire mechanism.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides an ergonomic and cost-effective means to discharge aerosol container contents, minimizing user discomfort and manufacturing expenses by using a lightweight trigger unit and efficient actuator assembly, enhancing user experience and reducing bodily stress.
Implementation Method 1
a spring assembly having a first end and a second end
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and trigger mechanism enables a user to ergonomically discharge aerosol container contents. The apparatus comprises a trigger unit, a handle assembly, a tension member, a tubular member, an operative end housing assembly, and an actuator assembly. The trigger unit interfaces the tension member to the handle assembly. The tension member transmits force from the trigger unit to the actuator assembly via the tubular structure, which structure interconnects the handle assembly and operative end housing. The operative end housing houses or receives the actuator assembly and an aerosol container. The transmitted force actuates the aerosol container via the actuator assembly. A method of assembling the apparatus is further described.